Snapping an image and notifying a user to pick-up a printed document

ABSTRACT

Method(s) and apparatus(es) relate to notification to pick-up a printed document (“document”). In a method, stored in a cloud computing system are: at least one operation image of the document; operation metadata associated with scanning or printing; and a user identity. A snap-notify function readies a camera to store a photo image and associated metadata. The photo image and metadata, uploaded from the mobile device to the cloud computing system, is compared by a backend application. The photo metadata is compared with data entries to obtain a match to the operation metadata. The photo image stored in relation to the photo metadata matching the operation metadata is retrieved. The photo image is compared to the operation image, and, for a match thereof to at least a threshold percentage, the cloud computing system instructs the multifunction printer to send a confidential notification for the user identity to pick up the document.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/262571, filed Jan. 30, 2019, the entirety of the disclosure of whichis incorporated by reference herein for all purposes. This applicationis related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 16/262393 and16/262498, the entirety of the disclosures of each of which areincorporated by reference herein for all purposes.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following description relates to a printed document. Moreparticularly, the following description relates to notifying a user topick-up a printed document.

BACKGROUND

Many offices may have a central printer for all or set of employees touse. For a printer, including without limitation a multifunctionprinter, a number of printed documents or other paper-based documentsmay be left at such printer. People may print documents and forget topick them up. Such printed documents may stay in a printer area for oneor more days and then may be thrown away or picked by other employeesalong with their printed documents. This may lead to reprinting ofdocuments leading to wasting paper and energy, in addition to clutter ina printer area.

For security reasons, indicating who printed a document may not beposted with such printed document. Therefore, determining who printed adocument may be problematic.

SUMMARY

A method relates generally to notification to pick-up a printeddocument. In such a method, identity data is registered in memory of amultifunction printer or a cloud computing system for registered usersof the multifunction printer. The multifunction printer is incommunication with the cloud computing system. For a printing orscanning operation of the multifunction printer associated with theprinted document, the following are stored in the cloud computingsystem: at least one operation image of the printed document; operationmetadata associated with the scanning or printing operation in a printerlog; and a user identity associated with the scanning or printingoperation. A snap-notify function of a print application is executed ona mobile device in communication with the multifunction printer via anetwork to cause a camera of the mobile device to be activated. Aphotograph of at least one printed page of the printed document via thecamera is received to store therefor at least one photo image andassociated photo metadata in the mobile device. The at least one photoimage and the photo metadata is uploaded from the mobile device to thecloud computing system. A backend application of the cloud computingsystem compares the photo metadata with data entries in the printer logto obtain a match to the operation metadata. The at least one photoimage stored in relation to the photo metadata matching the operationmetadata is retrieved. The backend application compares the at least onephoto image to the at least one operation image. Responsive todetermining the at least one photo image matches the at least oneoperation image to at least a threshold percentage, the cloud computingsystem instructs the multifunction printer to send a confidentialnotification for the user identity to pick up the printed document.

A multifunction printer relates generally to notification to pick-up aprinted document. In such a multifunction printer, memory of themultifunction printer or a cloud computing system is configured toregister identity data for registered users of the multifunctionprinter. The multifunction printer is in communication with the cloudcomputing system. The multifunction printer is configured to store inthe cloud computing system for a scan or print operation: at least oneoperation image of the printed document; operation metadata associatedwith the scan or print operation in a printer log; and a user identityassociated with the scan or print operation. A snap-notify function of aprint application on a mobile device in communication with themultifunction printer via a network is configured to cause a camera ofthe mobile device to be activated to: ready the camera for a photographof at least one printed page of the printed document to store thereforat least one photo image and associated photo metadata in the mobiledevice, and upload the at least one photo image and the photo metadatafrom the mobile device to the cloud computing system. The cloudcomputing system is configured to: compare by a backend application thephoto metadata with data entries in the printer log to obtain a match tothe operation metadata; retrieve the at least one photo image stored fora match between the photo metadata and the operation metadata; compareby the backend application the at least one photo image to the at leastone operation image; and instruct the multifunction printer to send aconfidential notification for the user identity to pick up the printeddocument responsive to a determination the at least one photo imagematches the at least one operation image to at least a thresholdpercentage.

Other features will be recognized from consideration of the DetailedDescription and Claims, which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Accompanying drawings show exemplary apparatus(es) and/or method(s).However, the accompanying drawings should not be taken to limit thescope of the claims, but are for explanation and understanding only.

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram depicting an example of a frontend portion of anotification flow to pick-up a printed document.

FIG. 2-1 is a flow diagram depicting an example of a backend portion ofa notification flow to pick-up a printed document.

FIG. 2-2 is a flow diagram depicting an example of comparing andmatching operations of FIG. 2-1.

FIG. 2-3 is a flow diagram depicting an example of purge operations foranother example of a notification flow.

FIG. 2-4 is a flow diagram depicting an example of another notificationflow to pick-up a printed document.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting an example of a registered usersrecord or table.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram depicting an example of a printer log.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram depicting an example of an operation metadatarecord.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram depicting an example of a multifunctionperipheral.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram depicting an example of acomputer/multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 8 is block diagram depicting an example of a portable communicationdevice.

FIG. 9 is a pictorial diagram depicting an example of a network.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth toprovide a more thorough description of the specific examples describedherein. It should be apparent, however, to one skilled in the art, thatone or more other examples and/or variations of these examples may bepracticed without all the specific details given below. In otherinstances, well known features have not been described in detail so asnot to obscure the description of the examples herein. For ease ofillustration, the same number labels are used in different diagrams torefer to the same items; however, in alternative examples the items maybe different.

Exemplary apparatus(es) and/or method(s) are described herein. It shouldbe understood that the word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “servingas an example, instance, or illustration.” Any example or featuredescribed herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed aspreferred or advantageous over other examples or features.

FIG. 1 is a flow diagram depicting an example of a frontend portion 100of a notification flow to pick-up a printed document. Frontend portion100 is for a preliminary portion of a notification flow, such asassociated with acts by a first user (“User A”).

At operation 101, users identity data (“identity data”) 115 isregistered or otherwise stored for purposes of retrieval. Such identitydata 115 may be registered in memory 120 of a multifunction peripheral(“MFP”), such as for example a multifunction printer, or in a cloudcomputing system or intranet. Such identity data 115 may be forregistered users of such an MFP. For purposes of clarity by way ofexample and not limitation, it shall be assumed identity data 115 isstored in memory 120 of an MFP.

For security reasons, any user may optionally have limited access tosuch identity data for purposes of making any changes thereto. Suchlimited access may be limited to administrative accessing 110.

At operation 102, a printing or scanning operation of an MFP may beperformed, such as by User A, on or for a printed document. At operation103, information associated with such printed document and operationtherefor may be stored, such as for example relationally stored inmemory 120 of such an MFP. Such information stored at operation 103 mayinclude at least one operation image 111, such as an image of a directprint or scan of such a printed document, and may include operationmetadata 112 associated with such operation conducted at operation 102as described below in additional detail.

For storing at least one operation image 111 of such a printed documentas part of operation 103, a set number of pages 121 may be set as amaximum number of pages of images for such an MFP to store for a printeddocument. In another example, for storing at least one operation imageof such a printed document, all pages 122, namely no maximum number ofpages of images, for such an MFP to store for a printed document may beset.

For storing at least one operation image 111 of such a printed document,an original resolution 123 may be set for such at least one operationimage for an MFP to store for a printed document. In another example,for storing at least one operation image 111 of such a printed document,a reduced resolution 124, such as for reducing memory requirementsand/or enhanced security, for such an MFP to store at least oneoperation image for a printed document may be set. In this example, atleast a 75% reduced resolution from an original printed sheet is used;however, in another example, a different reduction of resolution may beused. For this example, for an original resolution of 600 dpi (dots perinch) horizontally and vertically in each printed square inch of sheet,a 75% reduction in resolution may be 150 dpi horizontally and verticallyin each printed square inch scanned. Such a reduced resolution formatmay be preset.

Information stored at operation 103 may additionally include storedoperation metadata 112, such as scan metadata or print metadataassociated with a direct scanning or printing operation of such aprinted document using such an MFP. Relational storage at operation 103may use memory 120. In this example, a printer log 114, such as may bein memory 120, may be for operations conducted using an MFP. Along thoselines, operation metadata 112, which may be for a direct print or scanof a printed document using an MFP at operation 102, may be stored inprinter log 114. Furthermore, printer log 114 may include a pointer,generally indicated with arrow 116, to at least one operation image 111in relational association with corresponding operation metadata 112.

Information stored at operation 103 may include user identity data(“user identity”) 113 associated with a direct scanning or printingoperation document, using an MFP. User identity 113 may be of aregistered user in stored identity data 115 in memory 120. User identity113 may be considered part of operation metadata 112, but is separatedout in this example for purposes of clarity and not limitation.

User identity 113 may be stored in a secured manner. Furthermore, forsecurity reasons, user identity 113 may not be present on a printeddocument.

For purposes of clarity by way of non-limiting example, after a scanningor printing operation 102 using an MFP, a User A may not have retrievedsuch a printed document. For example, a User A may have forgotten totake with them or pick up such printed document. Other examples mayinclude: User A having thought such an MFP was a different MFP in anetwork with respect to printing a document; or location of an MFP maybe unknown to User A with respect to printing a document.

A subsequent user (“User B”) of such an MFP may find such printeddocument, and want to ping User A to retrieve such printed document, forany of a number of reasons. For example, User B may want to avoid havingclutter at such an MFP, unsecured printed documents at such an MFP,and/or having User A expend additional resources to reprint such aprinted document. Accordingly, a confidential notification to aregistered user associated with user identity 113 may be useful, asdescribed below in additional detail.

Registered users are not limited to employees of a company. Other typesof registered users, including guests, may be included. For example,when guests check into hotels, their information is stored in a hotel'ssystem. A guest may receive a key card to access property of hotel, andthis key card may be used to access a printer for example. For example,suppose a Guest ‘A’ can scan their key card, or enter their informationlike name, phone number, and/or room number, to use a hotel printer.Such a printer may record a time stamp when such printer was used byGuest ‘A’. A hotel system may have information of Guest ‘A’, such as forexample name, phone number, and/or email used for checking in. SupposeGuest ‘A’ prints a document ‘D’ and forgets to pick such document ‘D’up, and then Person ‘B’ arrives and finds document ‘D’. Person ‘B’ mayscan document ‘D’, and Guest ‘A’ may be identified for such document ‘D’as described herein. In this example, a time stamp of when a documentwas printed or scanned may be captured, and so such a system may seek tofind who logged into such a printer or an associated PC forcommunicating with such printer. After Guest ‘A’ is identified asassociated with such document ‘D’, a text message or email may be sentto Guest ‘A’ with a message along the lines of for example: “You forgotyour document by the printer, please pick up your document.”

FIG. 2-1 is a flow diagram depicting an example of a backend portion 200of a notification flow to pick-up a printed document. Backend portion200 is described further with simultaneous reference to FIGS. 1 and 2-1.

Backend portion 200 is for a post-preliminary portion of a notificationflow, such as associated with acts by a second user (“User B”) of suchan MFP. Accordingly, a combination of portions 100 and 200 may providean overall notification flow.

At operation 201, User B may select a search-notify function of such anMFP. After such a selection, User B may scan such a printed document onsuch an MFP. At operation 202, a scan of at least one page 250 of such aprinted document may be received by MFP to generate at least one scannedimage 252 and scan metadata 251. In another example, such scan of atleast one page 250 of such a printed document may be received or scannedby an MFP, and then at least one scanned image 252 and scan metadata 251may be uploaded at operation 202 to a cloud-based computing system.Accordingly, more than one page of a printed document may be included ina scanned image 252.

For storing at least one scanned image 252 of such a printed document, aset number of pages 221 may be set as a maximum number of pages ofimages for such an MFP or cloud-based computing system to store for aprinted document. Optionally, a User B may select a number of pages tobe scanned for a document, which may be as few as a single page. For acloud-based computing system, memory may be larger, and so a largermaximum number may be used. In another example, for storing at least onescanned image 252 of such a printed document, all pages 222, namely nomaximum number of pages of images, for such an MFP or cloud-basedcomputing system to store for a printed document may be set.

For storing at least one scanned image 252 of such a printed document,an original resolution 223 may be set for such at least one scannedimage 252 for such an MFP to scan for a printed document for storage insuch MFP or cloud-based computing system. In another example, forstoring at least one scanned image 252 of such a printed document, areduced resolution format (“reduced resolution”) 224, such as forreducing memory requirements and/or enhanced security, for such an MFPor cloud-based computing system to store at least one scanned image 252for a printed document may be set. Settings 121 through 124 maycorrespond to settings 221 through 224 for purposes of subsequentcomparison.

In this example, at least a 75% reduced resolution from an originalprinted sheet is used; however, in another example, a differentreduction of resolution may be used. Again, for this example, for anoriginal resolution of 600 dpi (dots per inch) horizontally andvertically in every printed square inch of sheet, a 75% reduction inresolution may be 150 dpi horizontally and vertically in every printedsquare inch scanned. Such a reduced resolution 224 may be preset for ascanning operation responsive to selection of a search-notify functionat operation 201.

At operation 203, search-notify scan (“query”) metadata is compared withstored data, or more particularly stored operation metadata 112, entriesin a printer log 114 to obtain corresponding, or more particularlymatching, stored operation metadata 112. This comparison may beperformed by a notify application of an MFP or by a backend applicationof a cloud-based computing system, as described below in additionaldetail.

In this example, at operation 204, it is determined whether there is amatch between query metadata 251 and operation metadata 112 stored inprinter log 114. If no match is found as determined at operation 204, atoperation 209 a no match found message may be displayed, such as forexample on a display of such an MFP. In this example, an exact matchthreshold is used. However, in another example a less than an exactmatch threshold may be used for comparing query metadata 251 andoperation metadata 112.

For a match between query metadata 251 and operation metadata 112 atoperation 205, user identity 113 corresponding to such matchingoperation metadata 112 may be obtained from printer log 114. However,such corresponding user identity 113 may not be directly obtained atthis juncture for purposes of additional security and/or confirmation byuse of an additional optional check using images.

For a match between query metadata 251 and operation metadata 112 atoperation 205, such an at least one operation image 111 stored inrelation to such operation metadata 112 matching query metadata 251 maybe retrieved.

At operation 206, such at least one scanned image 252 associated withmatching query metadata 251 may be compared to such at least oneoperation image 111 retrieved in relating to matching operation metadata112. For this example, a comparison operation 206 may be performed by anotify application of an MFP or by a backend application of acloud-based computing system.

In this example, a match at operation 204 may not be sufficient forconfirming and/or securing identity of an owner of a document, and so asecond optional check for a match, though not necessarily an exactmatch, at operation 207, using optional operations 205 and 206, may beused to bolster confidence in owner identity.

Responsive to determining at operation 207 such at least one scannedimage 252 matches at least one operation image 111 retrieved atoperation 205 to at least a threshold percentage, at operation 208 suchan MFP or cloud-based computing system may send a confidentialnotification to a user identity 113 associated with matching operationmetadata 112 to pick up such a printed document. If no match is found asdetermined at operation 207 to at least a threshold percentage, atoperation 209 a no match found message may be displayed on a display ofsuch an MFP. A threshold percentage in this example is 80%; however, inanother example, a lower or higher threshold percentage may be used.

Such a confidential notification sent at 208 may be by email 211 and/ortext message 212. This confidential notification may be sent from suchan MFP or cloud-based system without revealing User A identity to UserB. Again, user identity 113 may be found with a match at operation 204,and this user identity 113, such as for a User A, need not be displayed,such as for example on a display of an MFP. Optionally, at operation208, such an MFP or cloud-based computing system in response to sendinga confidential notification may display on a display screen thereof atoperation 233 to indicate a message was sent to an owner of such printeddocument without revealing user identity 113 of such owner.

Optionally, at a location of an MFP, there may be a safe with anelectronic pad (“electronic safe”) for opening, closing, locking, andunlocking. Accordingly, at operation 210, User B may put such a printeddocument in such an electronic safe and lock it via such pad. Such anMFP or cloud-based computing system may be in communication with such anelectronic safe for setting a code for unlocking such electronic safe. Aconfidential notification sent at 208 may include a code for openingsuch electronic safe.

FIG. 2-2 is a flow diagram depicting an example of operations 206 and207 of FIG. 2-1 for an example of a backend portion 200. This example ofbackend portion 200 is described further with simultaneous reference toFIGS. 1 through 2-2.

At operation 213, a comparison of at least one scanned image to at leastone operation image may be performed on a pixel-by-pixel basis. In thisexample, such first pixel-by-pixel basis may be with pattern matching atoperation 214.

At 215, if a match was found by a comparison at operation 213 to atleast a threshold percentage, then, for this example, notification flow200 may resume at operation 208. If, however, no match was found by acomparison at operation 213, as determined at operation 215 to at leasta threshold percentage, then, for this example, notification flow 200may at operation 216 optionally perform another comparison of at leastone scanned image 252 to at least one operation image 111 on a differentpixel-by-pixel basis. In this example, such second pixel-by-pixel basismay be with image edge detection matching at operation 218.

At 217, if a match was found by a comparison at operation 216 to atleast a threshold percentage as determined at 217, then in this examplenotification flow 200 may resume at operation 208. If, however, no matchwas found by a comparison at operation 216 to a threshold percentage asdetermined at operation 217, then in this example notification flow 200may resume at operation 209.

FIG. 2-3 is a flow diagram depicting an example of purge operations 220for another example of a backend portion 200 of FIG. 2-1. This exampleof backend portion 200 is described further with simultaneous referenceto FIGS. 1 through 2-3.

From operation 208, a determination may be made whether to purge memory120, such as one or more data entries in printer log 114. A purgingoperation may be based on an amount of memory 120 used for a printer log114 and/or a period time or other time parameter for a periodic purging.These settings may be set at operation 221 with administrativeprivileges. If a purging operation is to be performed as determined atoperation 219, then at operation 222 at least one operation image 111and associated operation metadata 112, including user identity 113, maybe purged or deleted from printer log 114 in memory 120. After purgingat operation 222, a notification flow may resume or wait for anotherselection at operation 201. However, if no purge is to be performed asdetermined at operation 219, a notification flow may resume at operation201.

FIG. 2-4 is a flow diagram depicting an example of another backendportion 200A of a notification flow to pick-up a printed document.Backend portion 200A is described further with simultaneous reference toFIGS. 1 through 2-4.

Backend portion 200A is for post processing with respect to frontendportion 100, such as associated with acts by a second user (“User B”) ofsuch an MFP. Accordingly, portions 100 and 200A may be combined asdescribed herein to notify a user.

In this example, such a printer or MFP does not have a scanner, or aworking scanner. Along those lines, at operation 201A, a snap-notifyfunction may be executed on a snap-notify application of a mobile devicein communication with such an MFP or a cloud-based computing system. Inanother example, at operation 201A, a snap-notify function may beexecuted on a snap-notify application of such an MFP in communicationwith such a mobile device with a camera or a wireless camera and incommunication with a cloud-based computing system. A network, wired orwireless, may be used for communication with such a mobile device asbetween such a printer and/or cloud-based computing system. Execution ofsuch a snap-notify function may cause a camera of such a mobile deviceto be activated. A wireless network may be used for communication withsuch a wireless camera as between such a printer and/or cloud-basedcomputing system.

Using such snap-notify application, User B may photograph one or morepages of a printed document using such camera to obtain at least onephotograph 250P. At operation 202A, a photograph of at least one printedpage of such printed document is received via such camera, and at leastone photo image 252P and associated photo metadata 251P therefor of suchat least one photograph 250P is uploaded and stored, such as in acloud-based computing system or in an MFP.

Optionally, such a snap-notify application may be configured to notstore, or only temporarily store, photos 250P taken with such cameraunder execution of such a snap-notify application. Along those lines,after uploading from a mobile device or wireless camera to a cloud-basedcomputing system, such mobile device or wireless camera may beconfigured via such snap-notify application to delete such uploadedphoto image(s) 252P and associated photo metadata 251P from its ownmemory. However, in this example, a photograph 250P of at least oneprinted page of a printed document via a camera may be stored as atleast one photo image 252P along with associated photo metadata 251P ina mobile device.

For storing at least one photo image 252P of such a printed document, aset number of pages 221 may be set as a maximum number of pages orimages for such at least one photo image 252P to store for a printeddocument. In another example, for storing at least one photo image 252Pof such a printed document, all pages 222, namely no maximum number ofpages or images, to store for a printed document may be set. Again, aUser B may determine how many photos to take.

Furthermore, a User B need not scan or photograph starting from page 1and progressing sequentially through a document. For example, a User Bmay start at any page and randomly select one or more other pages tophotograph or scan. Page numbers on a printed document may be used todetermine which pages to use for purposes of comparison; or a User B mayinput which pages were scanned or photographed.

For storing at least one photo image 252P of such a printed document, anoriginal resolution 223 may be set for such at least one photo image252P for such an MFP or in a cloud-based computing system to store for aprinted document. In another example, for storing at least one photoimage 252P of such a printed document, a reduced resolution 224, such asfor reducing memory requirements and/or enhanced security, for such anMFP or a cloud-based computing system to store at least one photo image252P for a printed document may be set. Settings 121 through 124 maycorrespond to settings 221 through 224 for purposes of subsequentcomparison.

In this example, at least a 75% reduced resolution from an originalprinted sheet is used; however, in another example, a differentreduction of resolution may be used. Again, for this example, for anoriginal resolution of 600 dpi (dots per inch) horizontally andvertically in every square printed inch of sheet, a 75% reduction inresolution may be 150 dpi horizontally and vertically in every squareprinted inch scanned. Such a reduced resolution format may be preset fora photographing operation to obtain at least one photograph 250Presponsive to execution of a snap-notify function at operation 201A, orsuch a reduced resolution format may be obtained by a conversion of atleast one photograph 250P after a photographing operation 201A toprovide at least one photo image 252P.

At operation 203A, photo metadata 251P is compared with data entries ina printer log 114 to obtain a match to stored operation metadata 112. Atoperation 204A, it is determined whether there is a match as betweenphoto metadata 251P and operation metadata 112, such as stored inprinter log 114 for example. If no match is found as determined atoperation 204A, at operation 209 a no match found message may bedisplayed on a display of such an MFP. In this example, an exact matchthreshold is used. However, in another example a less than an exactmatch threshold may be used.

Along those lines, a photo image of a printed document may be comparedwith print metadata 251P stored on a printer for example. For purposesof clarity by way of non-limiting example, print metadata 251P mayinclude information such as color or BW, page size (e.g., A4, letter,legal, etc.) and/or number of pages. To obtain information about pagesize from photo data, an image-to-image comparison may be performedusing keypoint extracting, keypoint matching, scale-invariant featuretransforming (e.g., SIFT) of keypoints, and/or other image-to-imagefeature extraction technology for purposes of image-to-image comparison.

For a match between photo metadata 251P and operation metadata 112, atoperation 205A, such an at least one operation image 111 stored inrelation to such operation metadata 112 matching such photo metadata251P may be retrieved. At operation 206A, such at least one photo image252P for such matching photo metadata 251P may be compared to such atleast one operation image 111 retrieved.

If a match is determined to a threshold percentage at operation 207A,namely one or more photos match corresponding operation images to atleast a threshold percentage, at operation 208 such an MFP orcloud-based computing system may send a confidential notification to anidentified user to pick up such printed document. If no match is foundto at least a threshold percentage at operation 207A, at operation 209 ano match found message may be displayed on a display of such an MFP ormobile device. A threshold percentage in this example is 80%; however,in another example, a lower or higher threshold percentage may be used.

A confidential notification sent at 208 may be by email 211 and/or textmessage 212. This confidential notification may be sent from an MFP orcloud-based computing system without revealing User A identity to UserB. Again, user identity 113 may be found with a match at operation 204A,and this user identity, such as for a User A, need not be displayed on adisplay of an MFP or mobile device for sending a confidentialnotification. Optionally, at operation 208, an MFP or cloud-basedcomputing system in response to sending a confidential notification maydisplay on a display screen of such MFP or mobile device at operation213 to indicate a message was sent to an owner of a printed documentwithout revealing user identity 113 of such owner.

Optionally, at a location of an MFP, there may be a safe with anelectronic pad (“electronic safe”) for opening, closing, locking, andunlocking. An electronic safe may be in communication with an MFP orcloud-based computing system for setting a code for unlocking. Aconfidential notification sent at 208 may include a code for openingsuch an electronic safe. Accordingly, at operation 210, User B may put aprinted document in an electronic safe and lock it via a pad.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram depicting an example of a registered usersrecord or table (“table”) 300. Such registered users record includesidentity data, such as identity data 115 and may be for registered usersof an MFP, as previously describe with reference to FIG. 1.

There may be rows of user identity records in table 300 for eachregistered user. For example, a user identity 310 in a row of table 300may include a user device address field 301, an email address field 302,and optionally a user name field 303. Accordingly, there may be a userdevice address, an email address, and optionally a user name for eachregistered user for an MFP. A confidential notification for example maybe an email sent to a registered user of such registered users for auser identity found from a match, as previously described.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram depicting an example of a printer log 400.FIG. 5 is a block diagram depicting an example of an operation metadatarecord 500. FIGS. 4 and 5 are further described with simultaneousreference to FIGS. 1 through 5.

A printer log 114, such as may be in memory 120, may be for operationsconducted using an MFP as previously described with reference to FIG. 1,and printer log 400 may be an example of a printer log 114.

Printer log 400 may be a table for relationally storing information;however, another type of relational data storage may be used. Each dataentry row 410 may include at least one operation image 411 as previouslydescribed for a printed document. Each data entry row 410 may furtherinclude operation metadata 412 and user identity 413 each associatedwith such at least one operation image 411, such as previouslydescribed. Each data entry row 410 may include user identity or apointer to user identity 413. For purposes of storage reduction and/orfurther security, a user identity pointer 413 may point to a useridentity 310 in a table 300 of FIG. 3.

Operation metadata 412 may populate one or more fields of an operationmetadata record 500. Such an operation metadata record 500 may includeone or more of paper size field 501, a color mode field 502, and anumber of pages field 503 of an associated printed document.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram depicting an example of a multifunctionperipheral (“MFP”) 600. MFP 600 is provided for purposes of clarity byway of non-limiting example.

MFP 600 includes a control unit 601, a storage unit 602, an imagereading unit 603, an operation panel unit 604, a print/imaging unit 605,and a communication unit 606. Communication unit 606 may be coupled to anetwork for communication with other peripherals, mobile devices,computers, servers, and/or other electronic devices.

Control unit 601 may include a CPU 611 and an image processing unit 612.Storage unit 602 may include ROM, RAM, and large capacity storagememory, such as for example an HDD or an SSD. Storage unit 602, whichmay include memory 120, may store various types of data and controlprograms.

Operation panel unit 604 may include a display panel 641, a touch panel642, and hard keys 643. Print/imaging unit 605 may include a sheetfeeder unit 651, a sheet conveyance unit 652, and an imaging unit 653.

Generally, for example, for an MFP a copy image processing unit, ascanner image processing unit, and a printer image processing unit mayall be coupled to respective direct memory access controllers forcommunication with a memory controller for communication with a memory.Many known details regarding MFP 600 are not described for purposes ofclarity and not limitation.

Because one or more examples include use of a programmed computersystem, where such programmed computer system may include acommunications server or a cloud-based computing system, FIG. 7 is ablock diagram depicting an example of a computer/multifunctionperipheral system 700 upon which one or more aspects described hereinmay be implemented. Along those lines, an MFP, such as MFP 600, ineffect may be a computer system, where a panel thereof, is effectively adisplay device 701.

More generally, such a computer system/MFP 700 may include a programmedcomputing device 710 coupled to a display device 701, such as a LiquidCrystal Display (“LCD”), or a Light Emitting Diode (“LED”) display, andto one or more input devices 706, such as a keyboard and a cursorpointing device. Display 701 may be a touch screen display. Computersystem/MFP 700 by itself or networked with one or more other computersystems may provide an information handling system.

Programmed computing device 710 may be programmed with a suitableoperating system, which may include Mac OS, Java Virtual Machine,Real-Time OS Linux, Solaris, iOS, Darwin, Android Linux-based OS, Linux,OS-X, Unix, or a Windows operating system, among other platforms,including without limitation an embedded operating system, such asVxWorks. Programmed computing device 710 may include a centralprocessing unit (“CPU”) 704, an image processing unit (“IPU”) 707, oneor more memories and/or storage devices (“memory”) 705, and one or moreinput/output interfaces (“I/O interface”) 702.

CPU 704 may be a type of microprocessor known in the art, such as thoseavailable from IBM, Intel, ARM, and Advanced Micro Devices for example.CPU 704 may include one or more processing cores. Support circuits (notshown) may include busses, cache, power supplies, clock circuits, dataregisters, and the like. IPU 707 may be a system-on-chip (SoC),application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable gatearray (FPGA), or other integrated circuit chip.

Memory 705 may be directly coupled to CPU 704 or coupled through I/Ointerface 702. At least a portion of an operating system may be disposedin memory 705. Memory 705 may include one or more of the following:flash memory, random access memory, read only memory, magneto-resistiveread/write memory, optical read/write memory, cache memory, magneticread/write memory, and the like, as well as non-transitorysignal-bearing media as described below. For example, memory 705 mayinclude an SSD, which is coupled to I/O interface 702, such as through aSATA bus or other bus. Moreover, one or more SSDs may be used, such asfor RAID or other multiple drive storage for example.

I/O interface 702 may include chip set chips, graphics processors,and/or daughter cards, among other known circuits. I/O interface 702 mayinclude interface circuitry adapted to receive and transmit data, suchas data files and the like.

Programmed computing device 710 may optionally include one or moreperipheral cards (not shown). An example of a daughter or peripheralcard may include a network interface card (“NIC”), a display interfacecard, and a Universal Serial Bus (“USB”) interface card, among otherknown circuits.

Programmed computing device 710 may be coupled to a number of clientcomputers, server computers, or any combination thereof via aconventional network infrastructure, such as a company's Intranet and/orthe Internet, for example, allowing distributed use. Moreover, a storagedevice, such as an SSD for example, may be directly coupled to such anetwork as a network drive, without having to be directly internally orexternally coupled to programmed computing device 710. However, forpurposes of clarity and not limitation, it shall be assumed that an SSDis housed in programmed computing device 710.

Memory 705 may store all or portions of one or more programs or data,including variables or intermediate information during execution ofinstructions by CPU 704, to implement processes in accordance with oneor more examples hereof to provide program product 720. Program product720 may be for implementing all or portions of process flows, asdescribed herein. Additionally, those skilled in the art will appreciatethat one or more examples hereof may be implemented in hardware,software, or a combination of hardware and software. Suchimplementations may include a number of processors or processor coresindependently executing various programs, dedicated hardware and/orprogrammable hardware. Memory 705 may further be used to store MFPdrivers and document preparation software 721.

Implementations related to use of computing device 710 for implementingtechniques described herein may be performed by computing device 710 inresponse to CPU 704 executing one or more sequences of one or moreinstructions contained in main memory of memory 705. Such instructionsmay be read into such main memory from another machine-readable medium,such as a storage device of memory 705. Execution of the sequences ofinstructions contained in main memory may cause CPU 704 to perform oneor more process steps described herein. In alternative implementations,hardwired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination withsoftware instructions for such implementations. Thus, the exampleimplementations described herein should not be considered limited to anyspecific combination of hardware circuitry and software, unlessexpressly stated herein otherwise.

One or more program(s) of program product 720, as well as documentsthereof, may define functions of examples hereof and can be contained ona variety of non-transitory tangible signal-bearing media, such ascomputer- or machine-readable media having code, which may include, butare not limited to: (i) information permanently stored on non-writablestorage media (e.g., read-only memory devices within a computer such asCD-ROM or DVD-ROM disks readable by a CD-ROM drive or a DVD drive); or(ii) alterable information stored on writable storage media (e.g.,floppy disks within a diskette drive or flash drive or hard-disk driveor read/writable CD or read/writable DVD).

Computer readable storage media encoded with program code may bepackaged with a compatible device or provided separately from otherdevices. In addition program code may be encoded and transmitted viawired optical, and/or wireless networks conforming to a variety ofprotocols, including the Internet, thereby allowing distribution, e.g.,via Internet download. In implementations, information downloaded fromthe Internet and other networks may be used to provide program product720. Such transitory tangible signal-bearing media, when carryingcomputer-readable instructions that direct functions hereof, representimplementations hereof.

Along those lines the term “tangible machine-readable medium” or“tangible computer-readable storage” or the like refers to any tangiblemedium that participates in providing data that causes a machine tooperate in a specific manner. In an example implemented using computersystem/MFP 700, tangible machine-readable media are involved, forexample, in providing instructions to CPU 704 for execution as part ofprogrammed product 720. Thus, a programmed computing device 710 mayinclude programmed product 720 embodied in a tangible machine-readablemedium. Such a medium may take many forms, including those describeabove.

The term “transmission media”, which includes coaxial cables, conductivewire and fiber optics, including traces or wires of a bus, may be usedin communication of signals, including a carrier wave or any othertransmission medium from which a computer can read. Transmission mediacan also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as thosegenerated during radio-wave and infra-red data communications.

Various forms of tangible signal-bearing machine-readable media may beinvolved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructionsto CPU 704 for execution. For example, instructions may initially becarried on a magnetic disk or other storage media of a remote computer.The remote computer can load the instructions into its dynamic memoryand send such instructions over a transmission media using a modem. Amodem local to computer system/MFP 700 can receive such instructions onsuch transmission media and use an infra-red transmitter to convert suchinstructions to an infra-red signal. An infra-red detector can receivesuch instructions carried in such infra-red signal and appropriatecircuitry can place such instructions on a bus of computing device 710for writing into main memory, from which CPU 704 can retrieve andexecute such instructions. Instructions received by main memory mayoptionally be stored on a storage device either before or afterexecution by CPU 704.

Computer system/MFP 700 may include a communication interface as part ofI/O interface 702 coupled to a bus of computing device 710. Such acommunication interface may provide a two-way data communicationcoupling to a network link connected to a local network 722. Forexample, such a communication interface may be a local area network(“LAN”) card to provide a data communication connection to a compatibleLAN. Wireless links may also be implemented. In any such implementation,a communication interface sends and receives electrical, electromagneticor optical signals that carry digital and/or analog data andinstructions in streams representing various types of information.

A network link to local network 722 may provide data communicationthrough one or more networks to other data devices. For example, anetwork link may provide a connection through local network 722 to ahost computer 724 or to data equipment operated by an Internet ServiceProvider (“ISP”) 726. ISP 726 may in turn provide data communicationservices through a world-wide packet data communication network, the“Internet” 728. Local network 722 and the Internet 728 may both useelectrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry analog and/ordigital data streams. Data carrying signals through various networks,which carry data to and from computer system/MFP 700, are example formsof carrier waves for transporting information.

Wireless circuitry of I/O interface 702 may be used to send and receiveinformation over a wireless link or network to one or more otherdevices' conventional circuitry such as an antenna system, an RFtransceiver, one or more amplifiers, a tuner, one or more oscillators, adigital signal processor, a CODEC chipset, memory, and the like. In someimplementations, wireless circuitry may be capable of establishing andmaintaining communications with other devices using one or morecommunication protocols, including time division multiple access (TDMA),code division multiple access (CDMA), global system for mobilecommunications (GSM), Enhanced Data GSM Environment (EDGE), widebandcode division multiple access (W-CDMA), Long Term Evolution (LTE),LTE-Advanced, WiFi (such as IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11gand/or IEEE 802.11n), Bluetooth, Wi-MAX, voice over Internet Protocol(VoIP), near field communication protocol (NFC), a protocol for email,instant messaging, and/or a short message service (SMS), or any othersuitable communication protocol. A computing device can include wirelesscircuitry that can communicate over several different types of wirelessnetworks depending on the range required for the communication. Forexample, a short-range wireless transceiver (e.g., Bluetooth), amedium-range wireless transceiver (e.g., WiFi), and/or a long rangewireless transceiver (e.g., GSM/GPRS, UMTS, CDMA2000, EV-DO, andLTE/LTE-Advanced) can be used depending on the type of communication orthe range of the communication.

Computer system/MFP 700 can send messages and receive data, includingprogram code, through network(s) via a network link and communicationinterface of I/O interface 702. In the Internet example, a server 730might transmit a requested code for an application program throughInternet 728, ISP 726, local network 722 and I/O interface 702. Receivedcode may be executed by processor 704 as it is received, and/or storedin a storage device, or other non-volatile storage, of memory 705 forlater execution. In this manner, computer system/MFP 700 may obtainapplication code in the form of a carrier wave. Furthermore, server 730may be a cloud-based computing system having a backend application 729for execution of operations as previously described herein.

Because one or more examples involve a mobile device for a client devicefor inputting a customer request, such as via a text message or emailfor example, FIG. 8 is block diagram depicting an example of a portablecommunication device (“mobile device”) 820. Mobile device 820 mayinclude a wireless interface 810, an antenna 811, an antenna 812, anaudio processor 813, a speaker 814, and a microphone (“mic”) 815, adisplay 821, a display controller 822, a touch-sensitive input device823, a touch-sensitive input device controller 824, a microprocessor ormicrocontroller 825, a position receiver 826, a media recorder 827, acell transceiver 828, and a memory or memories (“memory”) 830.

Microprocessor or microcontroller 825 may be programmed to controloverall operation of mobile device 820. Microprocessor ormicrocontroller 825 may include a commercially available or custommicroprocessor or microcontroller.

Memory 830 may be interconnected for communication with microprocessoror microcontroller 825 for storing programs and data used by mobiledevice 820. Memory 830 generally represents an overall hierarchy ofmemory devices containing software and data used to implement functionsof mobile device 820.

Memory 830 may include, for example, RAM or other volatile solid-statememory, flash or other non-volatile solid-state memory, a magneticstorage medium such as a hard disk drive, a removable storage media, orother suitable storage means. In addition to handling voicecommunications, mobile device 820 may be configured to transmit,receive, and process data, such as Web data communicated to and from aWeb server, text messages (also known as short message service or SMS),electronic mail messages, multimedia messages (also known as MMS), imagefiles, video files, audio files, ring tones, streaming audio, streamingvideo, data feeds (e.g., podcasts), and so forth.

In this example, memory 830 stores drivers, such as I/O device drivers,and operating system programs (“OS”) 837. Memory 830 stores applicationprograms (“apps”) 835 and data 836. Data may include application programdata.

I/O device drivers may include software routines accessed throughmicroprocessor or microcontroller 825 or by an OS stored in memory 830.Apps to communicate with devices, such as touch-sensitive input device823 and other user interface objects adaptively displayed on a display821, may use one or more of such drivers. For example, a driver may beused for communication from keys of a user interface displayed ondisplay 821 associated with touch zones of touch sensitive input device823. Moreover, drivers may be used for other actual or virtualinput/output ports of mobile device 820.

Mobile device 820, such as a mobile or cell phone, includes a display821. Display 821 may be operatively coupled to and controlled by adisplay controller 822, which may be a suitable microcontroller ormicroprocessor programmed with a driver for operating display 821.

Touch-sensitive input device 823 may be operatively coupled to andcontrolled by a touch-sensitive input device controller 824, which maybe a suitable microcontroller or microprocessor programmed with a driverfor operating touch-sensitive input device 823. For example,touch-sensitive input device may be a haptic input device, apressure-sensitive input device, or some other touch-sensitive inputdevice.

Along those lines, touching activity input via touch-sensitive inputdevice 823 may be communicated to touch-sensitive input devicecontroller 824. Touch-sensitive input device controller 824 mayoptionally include local storage 829 for storing locations or touchzones or other sensed information 817 associated with touching activityinput. In another example, sensed information 817 may be stored inmemory 830.

Touch-sensitive input device controller 824 may be programmed with adriver or application program interface (“API”) for output of sensedinformation 817 to an app 818 of apps 835. In another example, app 818may be incorporated into OS 837.

App 838 may be a snap-notify app of apps 835. Snap-notify app may beconfigured to execute operations as previously described herein.

Microprocessor or microcontroller 825 may be programmed to interfacedirectly via touch-sensitive input device 823 or through touch-sensitiveinput device controller 824. Microprocessor or microcontroller 825 maybe programmed or otherwise configured to interface with one or moreother interface device(s) of mobile device 820. Microprocessor ormicrocontroller 825 may be interconnected for interfacing with atransmitter/receiver (“transceiver”) 828, audio processing circuitry,such as an audio processor 813, and a position receiver 826, such as aglobal positioning system (“GPS”) receiver. An antenna 811 may becoupled to transceiver 828 for bi-directional communication, such ascellular and/or satellite communication.

Mobile device 820 may include a media recorder and processor 827, suchas a still camera, a video camera, an audio recorder, or the like, tocapture digital pictures, audio and/or video. Microprocessor ormicrocontroller 825 may be interconnected for interfacing with mediarecorder and processor 827. Image, audio and/or video filescorresponding to the pictures, songs and/or video may be stored inmemory 830 as data 836.

Mobile device 820 may include an audio processor 813 for processingaudio signals, such as for example audio information transmitted by andreceived from transceiver 828. Microprocessor or microcontroller 825 maybe interconnected for interfacing with audio processor 813. Coupled toaudio processor 813 may be one or more speakers 814 and one or moremicrophones (“mic”) 815, for projecting and receiving sound, includingwithout limitation recording sound, via mobile device 820. Audio datamay be passed to audio processor 813 for playback. Audio data mayinclude, for example, audio data from an audio file stored in memory 830as data 836 and retrieved by microprocessor or microcontroller 825.Audio processor 813 may include buffers, decoders, amplifiers and thelike.

Mobile device 820 may include one or more local wireless interfaces 810,such as a WiFi interface, an infrared transceiver, and/or an RF adapter.Wireless interface 810 may provide a Bluetooth adapter, a WLAN adapter,an Ultra-Wideband (“UWB”) adapter, and/or the like. Wireless interface810 may be interconnected to an antenna 812 for communication. As isknown, a wireless interface 810 may be used with an accessory, such asfor example a hands-free adapter and/or a headset. For example, audibleoutput corresponding to audio data may be transferred from mobile device820 via an adapter to another mobile radio terminal, a computer, oranother electronic device. In another example, wireless interface 810may be for communication within a cellular network or another WirelessWide-Area Network (“WWAN”).

Because one or more examples involve a network or networks, FIG. 9 is apictorial diagram depicting an example of a network 900. Network 900 mayinclude one or more mobile phones 901 in wireless communication withwireless access point (“AP”) 903 and one or more mobile phones 901 incommunication with a base station 913.

An MFP 902 may be in wireless communication with wireless AP 903.Wireless AP 903 may be connected for communication with a router 904,which in turn may be connected to a modem 905. Modem 905 and basestation 913 may be in communication with Internet-Cloud infrastructure907.

A firewall 906 may be in communication with Internet-Cloudinfrastructure 907. Firewall 906 may be in communication with auniversal device service server 908. Universal device service server 908may be in communication with a content server 909, a web server 911,and/or an app server 912.

Accordingly, known details regarding networks are not described inunnecessary detail for purposes of clarity and not limitation.

While the foregoing describes exemplary apparatus(es) and/or method(s),other and further examples in accordance with the one or more aspectsdescribed herein may be devised without departing from the scope hereof,which is determined by the claims that follow and equivalents thereof.Claims listing steps do not imply any order of the steps. Trademarks arethe property of their respective owners.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for notification to pick-up a printeddocument, comprising: a multifunction printer in communication with acloud computing system; for a printing or scanning operation of themultifunction printer, storing in the cloud computing system: at leastone operation image of the printed document; operation metadataassociated with the scanning or printing operation in a printer log; anda user identity associated with the scanning or printing operation;executing a snap-notify function of a print application on a mobiledevice in communication with the multifunction printer via a network tocause a camera of the mobile device to be activated; receiving aphotograph of at least one printed page of the printed document via thecamera to store therefor at least one photo image and associated photometadata in the mobile device; and uploading the at least one photoimage and the photo metadata from the mobile device to the cloudcomputing system.
 2. The method according to claim 1, furthercomprising: comparing by a backend application of the cloud computingsystem the photo metadata with data entries in the printer log to obtaina match to the operation metadata; and retrieving the at least one photoimage stored in relation to the photo metadata matching the operationmetadata.
 3. The method according to claim 2, further comprising:comparing by the backend application the at least one photo image to theat least one operation image; and responsive to determining the at leastone photo image matches the at least one operation image to at least athreshold percentage, instructing by the cloud computing system themultifunction printer to send a confidential notification for the useridentity to pick up the printed document.
 4. The method according toclaim 3, wherein: for the storing of the at least one operation image,storing up to a set number of pages of the printed document; and for thereceiving of the at least one photo image, storing up to the set numberof pages of the printed document photographed.
 5. The method accordingto claim 3, wherein: for the storing of the at least one operationimage, storing all pages of the printed document; and for the receivingof the at least one photo image, storing all the pages of the printeddocument photographed.
 6. The method according to claim 3, wherein theat least one operation image and the at least one photo image are bothin a same reduced resolution format.
 7. The method according to claim 3,wherein responsive to the comparing of the photo metadata with the dataentries to obtain the match to the operation metadata not resulting inthe match, displaying a no match found message on a display screen ofthe multifunction printer or the mobile device.
 8. The method accordingto claim 3, wherein responsive to determining the at least one photoimage does not match the at least one print image to at least thethreshold percentage, displaying a no match found message on a displayscreen of the printer or the mobile device.
 9. The method according toclaim 3, wherein: the user identity is in the identity data; theidentity data includes a device address and an email address for each ofthe registered users; and the confidential notification is an email sentto a registered user of the registered users for the user identity. 10.The method according to claim 3, wherein the operation metadata includesone or more of paper size, color mode and number of pages of the printeddocument.
 11. The method according to claim 3, wherein the comparing theat least one photo image to the at least one operation image isperformed on a pixel-by-pixel basis.
 12. The method according to claim3, wherein the comparing of the at least one photo image to the at leastone operation image is performed on a first pixel-by-pixel basis withpattern matching followed by a second pixel-by-pixel basis with edgedetection responsive to the first pixel-by-pixel basis comparison notresulting in the match to at least the threshold percentage.
 13. Themethod according to claim 3, further comprising periodically purging thememory of the multifunction printer to delete the at least one operationimage and the operation metadata.
 14. The method according to claim 13,wherein only administrative privileges are allowed to access and editthe identity data and to set a period for the periodic purging.
 15. Amultifunction printer for notification to pick-up a printed document,comprising: a multifunction printer in communication with a cloudcomputing system; the multifunction printer configured to store in thecloud computing system for a scan or print operation: at least oneoperation image of the printed document; operation metadata associatedwith the scan or print operation in a printer log; and a user identityassociated with the scan or print operation; and a snap-notify functionof a print application on a mobile device in communication with themultifunction printer via a network configured to cause a camera of themobile device to be activated.
 16. The multifunction printer accordingto claim 15, wherein the mobile device is activated to: ready the camerafor a photograph of at least one printed page of the printed document tostore therefor at least one photo image and associated photo metadata inthe mobile device; and upload the at least one photo image and the photometadata from the mobile device to the cloud computing system.
 17. Themultifunction printer according to claim 16, wherein the cloud computingsystem is configured to: compare by a backend application of the cloudcomputing system the photo metadata with data entries in the printer logto obtain a match to the operation metadata; retrieve the at least onephoto image stored for a match between the photo metadata and theoperation metadata; and compare by the backend application the at leastone photo image to the at least one operation image.
 18. Themultifunction printer according to claim 17, wherein the cloud computingsystem is configured to instruct the multifunction printer to send aconfidential notification for a user identity to pick up the printeddocument responsive to a determination the at least one photo imagematches the at least one operation image to at least a thresholdpercentage.
 19. The multifunction printer according to claim 18, whereinthe at least one scanned image compared to the at least one operationimage is a pixel-by-pixel comparison.
 20. The multifunction printeraccording to claim 18, wherein the at least one scanned image comparedto the at least one operation image is a first pixel-by-pixel comparisonwith pattern matching followed by a second pixel-by-pixel comparisonwith edge detection responsive to the first pixel-by-pixel comparisonnot resulting in the match to at least the threshold percentage.